The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) is set to award a contract to Gilbane with Next Wave Rhode Island Partners to design and construct its new Downtown Transit Center in the US. 

Next Wave Rhode Island Partners is a consortium of companies, namely Gilbane Development Company, Marsella Development, Plenary Americas, Gilbane Building Company, CUBE 3, and Jacobs. 

The contract with the consortium was approved by the RIPTA's board of directors last month. 

Gilbane, as the lead member and lead design-builder of the consortium, is set to commence the first phase of the progressive public-private partnership (P3).

Gilbane Development Company executive vice-president and Next Wave Rhode Island Partners consortium principal-in-charge Russell Broderick said: “Along with our development partners, Marsella Development and Plenary Americas, we are thrilled to get this progressive P3 underway with RIPTA to deliver a state-of-the-art transit centre that will enhance mobility, connectivity, and accessibility for the riders, residents, and visitors of Providence. 

“This project highlights the P3's ability to facilitate a comprehensive process to advance essential community infrastructure projects that meet the needs and expectations of the public sector partner, the facility users and the broader community.” 

The development will include staff break areas, temperature-controlled passenger arrival and seating areas, and amenities such as multimodal accommodations for bicyclists.  

The new transit centre will contrast with the current layout of Kennedy Plaza by offering a single central location.  

Next Wave Partners and the RIPTA are also exploring mixed-use transit-oriented development options.